Characteristics of the Genetic Code
Which of the following is correct about genetic code-
- It includes 61 codons for Amino acids & 3 stop codons
- Triplet nature for codon, some amino acids are coded by multiple codons
- Almost universal; exactly same in most genetic systems
- All the above — Correct Answer
Explanation:
Correct Answer: All the above
All three statements about the Genetic Code are correct:
- 61 sense codons for amino acids + 3 stop codons (UAA, UAG, UGA) = 64 total codons.
- Genetic code has triplet nature; some amino acids are coded by more than one codon (degeneracy).
- Genetic code is almost universal — the same codons code for the same amino acids in nearly all organisms.
Genetic Code — Key Features
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Nature | Triplet (3 nucleotides = 1 codon) |
| Total codons | 4³ = 64 |
| Sense codons | 61 (code for amino acids) |
| Stop codons | 3 (UAA, UAG, UGA) |
| Degeneracy | Multiple codons for same amino acid |
| Universality | Almost universal |
| Non-overlapping | Codons read sequentially |
Scientists — Genetic Code
- Har Gobind Khorana, Nirenberg & Holley: Deciphered the genetic code
- Watson & Crick: Double helical model of DNA
- Jacob & Monod: Operon concept (gene regulation in prokaryotes)
📚 About this Topic — Animal Genetics & Breeding
This multiple choice question is from Animal Genetics & Breeding, Animal Refresher. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Genetics & Breeding to strengthen your preparation.
